Your Loads Are Too Large
On one hand, you don’t want to waste water and energy by running a load that is absurdly small; you need to make the load worth your machine’s while. And on the other hand, cramming your washing machine chock-full is a good way to risk damaging your appliance and prevent your clothes from actually getting clean.
A crammed washing machine can’t effectively disperse the detergent and water throughout the load, and clothing cannot move freely, either. Thus, dirt is trapped in and around your clothing, potentially causing permanent damage. Worse, an overfull washer is too heavy for the machine’s drum and bearings; the delicate components will experience premature wear and tear that require homeowners to pay to repair their washing machines or to prematurely replace them.
You should be able to find information about the ideal load size for your unique washer by reading the owner’s manual — which is likely available online even if you don’t have it on hand.
You’re Using Too Much Detergent
Modern laundry detergents are more concentrated today than they were in the past. This means that modern detergents are more effective at releasing stains, preserving colors and generally cleaning your clothes — but it also means that it is easier than ever to use too much. Because most washing machines are water-friendly, meaning they don’t use much water to get your clothes clean, any excess detergent you use will linger inside the washer after the cycle is complete. The detergent dregs could clog up your washer, deteriorate machine components and cover future loads in extra soap.
Unfortunately, this is a tricky problem to identify because detergent leftovers are all but invisible. The best test is to run a load of clean towels through a normal cycle without adding any detergent. If you open the washer halfway through and see suds, you need to clean your washer (more on that later) and adjust your detergent use.
You’re Washing the Wrong Stuff
Your washing machine is not a cure-all; there are dozens of materials it can’t get clean. If you are in the habit of putting anything and everything into your washer, you could be doing severe damage to the interior of your appliance. Here are just a few common items you shouldn’t toss in your washing machine:
- ¨ Waterproof or water-resistant gear
- ¨ Memory foam
- ¨ Rubber
- ¨ Coins
- ¨ Sneakers
- ¨ Purses
- ¨ Comforters
You’ve Never Cleaned Your Machine
Like anything tasked with taking away dirt and grime — i.e. your sink, your toilet, your shower — you need to clean your washing machine every six months, or more frequently if you notice your machine developing an unpleasant odor. Fortunately, cleaning the washer is relatively easy if you follow these steps:
- ¨ Wipe down the gasket. The rubber seal around the door often accumulates grime. Spray it with white vinegar and wipe it down with a damp microfiber cloth.
- ¨ Run a cycle with vinegar. Set your washer to its most powerful level and hottest water temperature, and add two cups of white vinegar to the detergent dispenser. This will cut through any dirt and soap scum.
- ¨ Try running a cycle with baking soda. Do the same as the second step, replacing the vinegar with a half-cup of baking soda. This will neutralize any leftover vinegar and eliminate any odors.
- ¨ Wipe down the drum. Using a damp microfiber cloth, wipe the inside of the drum to pick up any extra dirt, lint or cleaning agents.
You Let Your Machine Jostle
No washing machine is completely still and silent; the agitation of the interior to get your clothes clean will make some noise and movement on the exterior. However, if your washing machine is hopping around your laundry room, you have a problem. Most washers are balanced to prevent the high-speed forces inside from causing excessive motion, but over time, machines can become imbalanced, which results in loud rumbling, extreme vibration and perhaps even jumping across the floor.
Every year, you should check to make sure your machine is well-balanced. You can do this by making sure the unit is level and that all four of its feet are making full contact with the floor. If this doesn’t help, you might need to take pains to keep your loads balanced inside the machine.
You Ignore Bad Signs
There are a few signs that something is seriously wrong with your washing machine — and ignoring these signs will reduce the lifespan of your washer to nearly zero. If you suffer any of the following washing machine symptoms, you need to can in a qualified repair service immediately:
- ¨ Your washing machine isn’t draining
- ¨ Water is not being added to your washing machine
- ¨ Washing machine drum won’t spin
- ¨ Your washing machine door won’t lock or unlock
- ¨ Washing machine continues to trip the power
Your washing machine should be among your most valued home appliances — and it’s time you treat it as such. By paying attention to what your washer is trying to tell you, you can keep it working perfectly for the foreseeable future.
